New technologies in wind turbine inspection: drones and AI

Traditional vs. New Technologies Inspection

Historically, blade inspection was carried out with technicians working at height using rope access.

This method has clear limitations:

• Increased risk to staff
• More technicians involved
• Wind Speed Restrictions
• High costs

In many wind farms in Latin America, this led to inspections only when there are already obvious signs, and as a preventive inspection.

Drone inspection in wind farms

The incorporation of specialized drones allows wind turbine inspections to be carried out faster, safer and more efficiently:

• Complete inspection of all three blades in a single day
• Fewer field staff Significant cost reduction
• Less exposure to work at height
• This technology facilitates more frequent inspections, reinforcing the preventive approach to wind O&M.

Artificial Intelligence applied to wind monitoring

The real differential arises when combining drones with analysis software and artificial intelligence. AI makes it possible to:

• Detect microcracks, erosion, and impact damage
• Classify defects according to criticality
• Compare the condition of the blade over time
• Prioritizing interventions before major failures

In economic terms, these technologies can reduce the cost of inspection by up to 80% compared to traditional methods, which represents a direct benefit for wind farm owners in LATAM.

Safety and operational efficiency

In addition to savings, the main advantage is safety. Fewer technicians exposed to work at height means fewer operational risks and greater business continuity.

In regions with high climate variability, such as many wind zones in Latin America, drones allow operating even when conditions are not suitable for manual work.

FAQs

Q: What are the advantages of drone inspection?

A: Reduces costs, time and risks in wind turbine inspection.

Q: How does AI help in wind energy?

A: It allows data to be analysed and defects to be detected in a predictive way.

About SGS

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